National Indian Gaming Commission refutes online gaming claim

Friday, October 21, 2016

Jonodev O. Chaudhuri serves as the chairman of the National Indian Gaming Commission. Photo by Andrew Bahl for Indianz.Com

The National Indian Gaming Commission has not approved online gaming or daily fantasy sports for any entity, despite claims from a company that wants to do business with tribes.

Atlantis Gaming Corporation issued a press release on Monday touting approval by "two federal agencies," CalvinAyre.Com reported. The company specifically named the "National Indian Gaming Commission" but the agency was not involved.

“The Commission has received numerous inquiries about the Atlantis Gaming Corporation’s press release. The NIGC was not a part of the approval process described in this release and the Commission feels it is important to clarify our position,” Chairman Jonodev O. Chaudhuri said in a press release on Thursday.

Atlantis Gaming Corporation's claims of federal approval appear to be central to its pitch to tribes. Without such approval, it's unlikely any would seek to do business with the firm.

Through the Unlawful Internet Gambling Enforcement Act of 2006, Congress outlawed internet gaming unless it is conducted pursuant to a Class III gaming compact or a federally-approved tribal gaming ordinance. States can also legalize online gaming -- only Delaware, Nevada and New Jersey have done so at this point.

The law does not include daily fantasy sports in its general ban but some states are regulating the growing industry, having classified it as a form of wagering.

Read More on the Story:
NIGC refutes online operator’s approval claims (CalvinAyre.Com 10/21)